GrapheneOS - the good and bad (One Year Later)

Summary

In this video, the creator shares their experience switching to Graphene OS, a privacy-focused Android operating system. They discuss the pros and cons of using it, including improved battery life, better control over app permissions, and reduced storage usage. While Graphene OS enhances digital security, it also introduces challenges such as issues with Google Maps, initial bugs with Android 14, and limited integration with Google’s AI features. Despite these drawbacks, the creator highlights the peace of mind that comes with better privacy and less reliance on Google.

Takeaways

• 😀 Graphene OS is a privacy-focused alternative to Google’s Android, designed to reduce data collection and increase security.
• 😀 Switching to Graphene OS frees up significant storage space on your phone, with the OS taking up only about 3GB compared to 12-15GB on standard Android.
• 😀 One of the biggest benefits of Graphene OS is improved battery life, with users reporting up to 50% better battery performance after switching.
• 😀 Graphene OS gives users granular control over app permissions, including the ability to deny apps network access and use them offline.
• 😀 You can create sandboxed profiles in Graphene OS to isolate apps like banking or social media, offering extra security in case of phone theft.
• 😀 Graphene OS receives frequent, automatic updates several times a month, keeping the OS up to date with the latest security patches and features.
• 😀 While the Pixel camera software is a strong selling point of Google phones, Graphene OS's default camera app is less impressive, but users can install the Google Camera app for better quality.
• 😀 Some apps, particularly banking apps, do not work well with Graphene OS due to additional security features, but accessing these apps through the browser is an alternative.
• 😀 Graphene OS supports dual SIM functionality without issues, allowing users to keep multiple phone numbers active, which is important for people living abroad.
• 😀 A major downside of Graphene OS is that it doesn’t fully support Google’s AI-driven features like photo editing, autocorrect, or other smart services.
• 😀 While there were initial bugs after switching, especially around Android 14’s release, most of the issues were resolved quickly, leading to a smoother experience overall.

Q & A

What is the main benefit of using GrapheneOS over standard Android?

The primary benefit of using GrapheneOS is enhanced privacy and security. It minimizes tracking, reduces system bloat, and provides more granular control over app permissions, which allows users to better protect their personal data.

How does GrapheneOS affect battery life compared to standard Android?

GrapheneOS significantly improves battery life. The user experienced a 30-50% increase in battery performance due to reduced background tracking and fewer services running, such as Google's location services and data syncing.

Does GrapheneOS support dual SIM functionality?

Yes, GrapheneOS fully supports dual SIM functionality. The user had no issues using two phone numbers in different countries, which worked seamlessly with the OS, similar to any other Android device.

What challenges might users face with app compatibility on GrapheneOS?

Some apps, particularly banking apps, may not function correctly on GrapheneOS due to their additional security features that conflict with the OS. In such cases, users can access these apps through a web browser instead of the native app.

Why does the user recommend downloading the Google Camera app on GrapheneOS?

The default camera app in GrapheneOS is not as effective as the one provided by Google. By downloading the Google Camera app, users can restore the superior photo quality and features that Pixel phones are known for.

What was the user's experience with Google Maps on GrapheneOS?

The user experienced issues with Google Maps on Wi-Fi, where it wouldn't load or work correctly. While it functioned better on cellular data, location-dependent apps like Uber also had problems with inaccurate location tracking.

What are some of the initial problems the user encountered after switching to GrapheneOS?

After switching to GrapheneOS, the user faced bugs typical of new Android releases, such as apps freezing and failing to close. These issues were resolved after a few updates, suggesting they were more related to Android 14's early release bugs rather than GrapheneOS itself.

Does GrapheneOS offer automatic updates?

Yes, GrapheneOS provides frequent and automatic updates. The user mentioned receiving several updates per month, ensuring that the device is always up-to-date with the latest security patches and new features.

What limitations does GrapheneOS have in terms of Google features?

GrapheneOS does not fully integrate with Google’s AI features, such as advanced photo editing or autocorrect. While users can still install Google apps, they do not work as seamlessly as they do on the standard Pixel OS, which could be a downside for those who rely on these features.

Is GrapheneOS a good choice for users looking to reduce their reliance on Google services?

Yes, GrapheneOS is an excellent choice for users who want to reduce their dependence on Google services. It provides a privacy-focused alternative to the Google ecosystem while still offering core Android functionality.